Westlake Hardware reports theft of 39 rose bushes

Wichita police are seeking help from the public in solving a thorny crime: the theft of nearly 40 rose bushes.

An employee of Westlake Hardware reported seeing a man throw what turned out to be 39 rose bushes over the fence of the business at 3110 E. Douglas to a second man at about 7:30 p.m. Friday, Lt. Dan East said. The second man was loading them into a small silver truck.

They then drove north on Hillside from the store, East said. Police aren’t sure where the evidence was planted.

Anyone with information related to the crime is asked to call detectives at 316-268-4407 or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111. Tips can be submitted at www.wichitacrimestoppers.com or by texting TIP217, then the message, to CRIMES (274637).